Brown asks for rail delay

Published 6:00 pm, Tuesday, December 24, 2002

The proposed 12.8-mile rail line would run through the Clear Lake City area and connect to the Union Pacific railroad line near Ellington Field.

"The release of the DEIS during the holiday season…compromises the ability of interested persons to respond adequately to the DEIS," Mayor Brown said in his letter.

"Allowing all interested persons adequate time to analyze and comment on the DEIS by extending the deadline for comments will better assure that potential concerns are properly addressed in the final Environmental Impact Study.

Mayor Brown added, "When I dedicated a Clear Lake area park in the name of Sylvan Rodriguez late last summer, I had only recently been informed that the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad would propose a rail line that would be situated only a quarter mile away from this beautiful retreat.

"I share the concerns of Clear Lake residents for this vital part of Houston, and this project should not move forward unless their concerns are fully answered."

He is one of several officials expressing concern about the proposed rail line.

Mayor Brown said he understands the need for economic competition among rail lines surrounding the Houston Ship Channel's industrial facilities, but wants to be very careful to maintain the integrity of the Clear Lake area.

"I will be working with all agencies involved as we participate in the EIS process on behalf of the Clear Lake residents and all the citizens of Houston," he continued, "and I will carefully follow the course of the STB study to ensure that its recommendations preserve the livability of this community."

"It is also my understanding that this rail line could impact the future economic viability of Ellington Field, interfere with the operation and safety of the city's water production facility in the area, and increase traffic congestion in the area," Mayor Brown concluded.

Now Playing:

"I commit to you that the city will stay closely involved throughout the process and will protect its interests with regard to this proposed project.